Ñoquis del 29
Our roommate Lali’s parents arrived today from the Mendoza province (famous around the world for their wine production, specifically Malbec) for a couple day visit in the capital. I came into the sala (living room) to find them huddled around eating and drinking wine. They offered me wine and my first reaction was- so early in the day (it was 1)? But then I realized I’d be a fool to turn it down and I was interested to meet them (beyond our Argentine kiss on the cheek). By the way it’s especially helpful to put some ice or water in the wine when it’s so hot and midday so you don’t pass out after lunch!
Then I was offered the ñoquis which this variety had pasta with tomato sauce but it can vary to include potatoes or bread crumbs. They told me that when the Italians immigrated to South America at the start of the 20th century (Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay) they brought this little dish (along with everything else Italian- pizza, ice cream, everything). They went on to tell me that it is tradition to eat ñoquis on the 29th of each month because that is when people were low on money and this was a cheap, hearty fare. It was very tasty though! They also put a coin under my plate as well, an old superstition that is supposed to bring the person prosperity.
P.S. Amelia missed out on all this lunchtime fun because she wasn’t here!
